Despite Chelsea’s substantial spending exceeding £1 billion under Todd Boehly’s chairmanship, the club is anticipated to remain active in the next two transfer windows. Kepa Arrizabalaga might confront the unwanted prospect of returning to Chelsea next summer. This scenario unfolds after his move to Stamford Bridge for a record-breaking £72 million from Athletic Bilbao in August 2018, marking the most expensive No.1 goalkeeper at the time. His five-year tenure was marred by inconsistency and the inability to secure a permanent spot, leading to a temporary move to Madrid against Mauricio Pochettino’s preferences.
Real Madrid’s Carlo Ancelotti recruited Kepa due to an ACL injury sidelining Thibaut Courtois for most of the 2023/24 season. Chelsea, responding to Edouard Mendy’s departure to Saudi Arabia, acquired Robert Sanchez from Brighton. Although Kepa expressed contentment with his Real Madrid stint and a desire for an extended deal, reports indicate a probable return to Chelsea, where Pochettino aims for his competition with Sanchez.
Remaining under contract with Chelsea until 2025 poses a dilemma for Pochettino. Without a new contract signed by Kepa, the club faces the prospect of selling him or risking losing him on a free transfer a year later. Chelsea encounters a goalkeeping crisis with Sanchez injured, relying on Dorde Petrovic. Despite Petrovic’s limited top-flight experience, he notably saved a crucial penalty against Newcastle, aiding Chelsea’s League Cup semi-final advancement.
Before his loan move, Kepa showcased moments of brilliance for Chelsea, contributing as a penalty hero in various successful club endeavors. Yet, his infamous display in the 2022 League Cup final against Liverpool, where he failed to save any penalties and missed his own, remains a defining moment.